Multiorgan [ 18 F]florbetapir PET/CT uptake in multiple myeloma-associated systemic AL amyloidosis: a case report.
Song Yang, Ye Tuo, Haibo Tan
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 77-year-old man with multiple myeloma underwent whole-body [18F]florbetapir PET/CT because AL amyloidosis was suspected. The scan showed prominent tracer retention in the myocardium, thyroid, lungs, parotid glands, tongue, gastric wall, and several muscle groups. Findings were considered alongside hematologic results, bone marrow examination, and gastrointestinal biopsy evidence in assessing systemic AL amyloidosis associated with myeloma. The scan depicted uptake across multiple organs, but uptake alone did not establish amyloid deposition at each positive site.
What made this case unusual
The notable finding was multiorgan tracer retention, including in the thyroid, parotid glands, tongue, and muscle groups; the authors caution that uptake at these sites does not itself confirm amyloid deposition.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Interpret [18F]florbetapir uptake as a map of tracer distribution, not proof of amyloid deposition at every uptake-positive site; correlate imaging with hematologic and biopsy findings.
Why it matters
This single case illustrates a potential role for whole-body amyloid imaging in visualizing distribution, while underscoring that diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility remain to be evaluated.